There are many stories that demonstrate how a great photo or a well-written phrase can positively influence people. Photojournalists working in war-torn countries bring home stories in their pictures that motivate others to act. Writers use words to bring important issues to light. One of the most powerful partnerships is found between the creative arts and charitable efforts. Charitable entities often work on behalf of a particular cause or group of people. They rely on finding ways to attract potential donors. Similarly, artists use their passion and vision to infuse their art with meaning. There is a natural synergy between charitable giving and the creative arts that these case studies highlight.
John Unger and Schoep
John Unger rescued Schoep as a puppy. Unger credits Schoep with getting him through many of his hard times. At 19 years old, Schoep began to suffer from arthritis. Unger didn’t have the funds to afford surgery and he knew Schoep’s time was limited. To commemorate his nearly two decade-long relationship with Schoep, Unger asked a friend to take a few pictures while the two swam in Lake Superior. That photo received more than two million views and enough donations to allow Unger to pay for Schoep’s surgery.
Michael J. Fox and Parkinson’s Disease
The actor Michael J. Fox was already famous when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2000. He started a foundation that pledged to donate 85 percent of all received funds directly to Parkinson’s research studies. The actor has leveraged his own visibility to attract support from fellow artists, as well as scientists and financiers to bring support to finding a cure for this disease. To date, more than 30 million has been raised.
Art Start and Volunteer Artists
The Art Start organization is a New York City nonprofit that connects homeless youth with art. The programs take place at homeless shelters and alternative incarceration facilities around the city. The program has earned the support of celebrities like Bruce Willis. The organization’s programming is led by amateur and professional artists who volunteer their time to teach art classes for the students. The program also supports students who show promise in the arts through their “emerging artists in residence” program. The Art Start program has leveraged the power of the arts to share students’ stories with potential individual and business donors who can help the charity grow.
Charity Plus Art Equals Change
There are more examples like these that highlight the mutual benefits charitable causes and artists find when working together. Musicians, artists, photographers, dancers and actors have gifts charities need to express their causes in poignant and moving ways. Charities, in turn, have causes worth supporting and sharing. By working together and combining their networks, artists, charities and their constituents can all benefit.
About the Author: Allie Capron is a nonprofit director and regular patron of the arts. She has learned from leading arts philanthropists like John Studzinski that charitable causes and artists receive the most public support by partnering together.
